Smokey the Bear visits water station during 2011 God's Country Marathon

Organizers of the God’s Country Marathon are seeking volunteers to assist with this year’s race on June 2. Volunteers are needed to host water stations throughout the course, assist with runner registration and check-ins, and help with pre- and post-race duties.

“By adding a half-marathon this year, we anticipate that we’ll have more runners participating in the race,” said race director, Kim Mitchell. “Our volunteers help us insure that race day runs smoothly, that adequate support is available for runners throughout the course, and that our marathon participants have a safe and enjoyable experience at our race. Our runners and staff greatly appreciate the assistance they provide.”

Water stations are set up at each mile marker to make sure that runners stay hydrated throughout the race. Those who host them are encouraged to decorate their stations, cheer on runners, or even play music at their stations to motivate runners as they complete the 26.2 mile run from Galeton to Coudersport. Runners vote for their favorite water stations at the completion of the race. The winning station run by a business is awarded a free one year membership with the Potter County Visitors Association. The winning station run by a group of families/friends receives a gift certificate for a local business.

Volunteers are also needed to assist with runner registration and check-in at the start of the full marathon at the Galeton Area School, and at Denton Hill State Park at the start of the half-marathon, as well as after the race at the Courthouse Square in Coudersport. Those willing to drive throughout the course on race day to drop off ice and check on supplies at water stations, as well as be available for runners who may require assistance on the course, are also appreciated.

Volunteers are encouraged to join runners in this year’s effort to raise money for local charities through CrowdRise. Volunteers may raise funds for the Boys & Girls Club of Potter County, the LEEK Hunting & Mountain Preserve, which provides outdoor recreational experiences for wounded and disabled veterans, or a charity of their choice. Through CrowdRise, volunteers use social networking power to raise funds. Small donations add up quickly and make a big difference in the lives of others. For more information, visit www.crowdrise.com/godscountrymarathon.

All volunteers will receive a free God’s Country Marathon t-shirt. Vendors are also encouraged to set up at the course finish line on the Courthouse Square. If you are interested in volunteering or being a vendor at this year’s marathon on June 2, contact Kim Mitchell at 814-274-7177, or stop in to the Potter County Visitors Association office. The office is open from 9 AM to 5 PM weekdays and Saturdays from noon to 5PM.

This year marks the 38th annual running of the God’s Country Marathon. The God’s Country Marathon is a USA Track and Field Sanctioned Event and Certified Course and a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon. For more information, visitwww.godscountrymarathon.com.